The countdown for Valentine's day has begun.

As the world gears up for the big event, Colombia's flower industry is busy preparing rose consignments to be exported to the U.S. and other global markets.

Colombia ships 450 million flowers for Valentine's Day. The day alone accounts for 12 percent of their annual income, according to figures.

But this year, farmers are worried that the slump in global economy and the unfriendly weather might harm their business.

On Valentine's Day, which falls on Feb. 14, lovers exchange flowers and gifts as a token of their affection.

Valentine039s Day
A worker prepares rose bouquets before the arrival of Valentine's Day in a farm in Chia, Colombia. Reuters
Valentine039s Day
Workers readying rose bouquets before the arrival of Valentine's Day in a farm in Chia, Colombia. Reuters
Valentine039s Day
A worker picks out roses in preparation for the upcoming Valentine's Day, at a farm in Cajica, Colombia. Reuters
Valentine039s Day
A worker checks roses in preparation for the upcoming Valentine's Day, at a farm in Cajica, Colombia. Reuters
Valentine039s Day
A worker prepares rose bouquets in preparation for the upcoming Valentine's Day, at a farm in Cajica. Reuters
Valentine039s Day
A worker picks out roses in preparation for the upcoming Valentine's Day, at a farm in Cajica. Reuters
Valentine039s Day
Workers pick out roses in preparation for the upcoming Valentine's Day, at a farm in Chia. Colombia. Reuters
Valentines day